Similan Islands are located 84 km northwest of the populous island of Phuket in Thailand. Similan is one of the most well-known island groups in the Andaman Sea, mainly because of the wonders that surround it under the clear blue waters. Overall, it is one of the 10 most interesting diving areas in the world, making this small Thai archipelago a popular destination for yachts and lace boats. Each of the Similan Islands has a number as well as a name.
These names vary from north to south: Kooh Ba Ngo (No. 9), Similan (No. 8), Paio (No. 7), Miang (No. 4, No. 5 and according to some, No. 6), Pian (No. 3), Pyongyang (No. 2) and Hu Yong (No. 1). Hin Posar or “heavy-headed elephant” has also been identified by others as the No. 6 island of Thailand’s Similan Islands.
The Similan Islands of Thailand are 90 minutes by motor boat from Fang-Nega Beach or eight hours or more by slow boat from Phuket. The area was declared a National Marine Park in 1982 and has not been greatly developed as a result. Simlan is derived from the Malay term Sembilan, meaning “number nine”. The name Similan refers to the 9 main islands of this group.
The waters around the Similan Islands are filled with tropical fish and colorful corals, creating a spectacular underwater appearance. As a result, diving is generally considered the best and most exciting pastime in the region and compares favorably with some of the best in the world. Part of the reason for this is due to the presence of large and beautiful granite boulders as well as rare and beautiful corals and fish in this area.
The islands, which are covered with dense forests, are covered with gummy and bamboo trees. The islands are home to monkeys, dark-skinned lizards, squirrels, bats, lizards, and a good variety of birds (although monkeys are shy and rarely seen by ordinary observers). But the most interesting part of these islands, at first glance, are the huge boulders that surround the west and south coasts, as well as the clear water that surrounds them.
Another highlight, as visitors will soon notice, is the white coral beaches, which are beautiful and often uninhabited. However, the most interesting sights can be found under the waves. Some of the most amazing coral reefs in the world can be found here, scattered on the shores of the same boulders. The waters around the Similan have turned these areas into an adventurous playground for divers.
Islands 1, 2 and 3 have come under public scrutiny for their turtle protection and coral reef protection programs. Island No. 3 belongs to a Thai princess. Fishing is prohibited in Similan National Park. However, fishing boats are constantly seen in and around the park.
Diving resorts in the Similan Islands, on the surface of beautiful boulders, along with lush rainforests and white sandy beaches, provide a beautiful and relaxing haven. The islands attract more visitors each year, especially from December to March, when the water around the islands is at its best. Day trips to the islands are very popular for diving, but it is recommended that serious divers travel to the coast to take full advantage of all the islands in terms of diving opportunities. Diving companies based in Phuket and Fang-Nega offer a number of diving training tours for beginners. So do not worry about diving training.
In general, it can be said that Similan Islands are one of the best tourist places around Phuket for swimming, diving, having fun and enjoying the pristine nature of the region. In addition, soft and white sands, high cliffs and lush forests are the most prominent features of this Thai archipelago. It is also worth mentioning that a variety of amenities such as local cafes and restaurants, water sports, swimming with snooker, jet skiing, sunbathing and surfing are also available in this area for visitors and tourists who travel.
